Use a power converter[9](or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Singapore power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Singapore, therefore please check that your power converter[9] has the right power adapter for Singapore otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit.

Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Singapore read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Can I use my American hair dryer in Singapore?

Best travel hair dryers for Singapore

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

What to look for when choosing a travel hair dryer for Singapore

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but lightweight dual-voltage dryer that operates with a 230 volt Singapore power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a model with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

A travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage in order to operate in Singapore.

A modern hair dryer could feature a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option is missing in more compact models.

Buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market might be risky - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.

Try to look for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space for packing other items.

Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading leading to starting an electrical fire, you can idenfity these with test and reset switches found on the plug.

Thicker hair could need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.

The most suitable hair dryers let you to control the speed and temperature with two options; a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to your hair whereas a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker wet hair.

Depending on your accommodation in Singapore you could find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest outlet making it cumbersome to style hair, therefore search for a model with the longest power cord available.

Rather than looking for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper buying a new hair dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser?

A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic[10] is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.

The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer[2] features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it ideal for styling thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on luggage, only requiring a power adapter for Singapore to work with a Singapore power outlet.

Which is the best small dual voltage hair dryer for Singapore?

A Conair MiniPRO[12] is the best value small ionic hair dryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is most suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium[11] is compact enough to transport in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and has features found on larger hair dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use resulting in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Singapore power outlet they should work in Singapore and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m electric power cords and a twin speed motor.

Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to dry without hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic[10] or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer[2] will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.

What is the best dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Using a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler[14] includes cool shot that can will quickly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.

The Berta Folding Hair Dryer[13] also has cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Singapore in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Singapore power outlet.

Dual voltage hair dryers

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of your hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are in.

Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Singapore then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Singapore power outlet.

Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Singapore power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Singapore.

Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Singapore or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can you switch the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

Most dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which selects between 2 voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Singapore.

This dial or switch will typically require either a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.

Also it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Singapore?

Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 230 volt power socket.

If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to work in the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.

Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Singapore, then plug in the power adapter into the Singapore power outlet.

It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting; but this temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this is appropriate for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.

Your dryer can now be operated with a Singapore power outlet.

Travelling to Singapore with a hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a plane in Singapore?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers[17] there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Singapore will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.
Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case[18] leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.

Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Singapore?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Singapore as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Singapore power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Singapore).
A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Singapore.
The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Singapore might be more than purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer[2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case[18] before setting off .

Do hotel rooms in Singapore have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose variety.
If staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests.
If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you can either call ahead to your hotel in Singapore or check on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests.
Hotel hair dryers are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds.
Those worried about hygiene should check for any burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Power converters for Singapore

Do I need a power converter to use my normal hair dryer in Singapore?

A suitable voltage transformer[9](or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Singapore. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it can be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer[2]. A power converter is also substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for travelling.

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter?

A heavy and expensive power converter[9] transforms a 230 volt Singapore power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter[19](or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Singapore.

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type C power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Singapore by using a Type C power adapter.

Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer[2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.

You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter[4] if the shape of the power outlet used in Singapore isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Singapore simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.

Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the Singapore power outlet. This unearthed wall supply (sometimes called a Type C power outlet[3] or Europlug) is recognised by the two circular adjacent holes next to each other.

Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.

Turn on the Singapore power outlet.

You can now turn on the hair dryer to use in Singapore.

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore by using a Type G travel adapter.

Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer[2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet - but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Singapore; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.

If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Singapore you will need to bring a Type G plug adapter[6]. The power adapter will convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Singapore by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.

Insert the Type G plug adapter in the Singapore power outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called a Type G power outlet[5], looks like 3 slots with plastic shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground.

Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.

Switch on the Singapore power outlet.

You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Singapore.

How to use a hair dryer in Singapore using a type M power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Singapore by using a Type M power adapter.

Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer[2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.

You will need to bring a Type M plug adapter[8] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet which is used in Singapore. This power adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Singapore simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.

Begin by taking the Type M plug adapter and plugging it into the Singapore power outlet. You can recognise the plug supply by 3 large round holes forming a triangular shape.